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Midlife Spirit Guides Paranormal Women's Fiction Series #1
Witch in Retrograde
Hot flashes and serial killers and spirit guides, oh my!
For Sarah Jane Prentice, 49-year-old police detective and witch, this has been the year from hell. She's lost her husband of 25 years, but after a few months everyone in her life is ready for her to move on and stop grieving. She's also been saddled with a horrific murder case she hasn't been able to solve. On top of everything else, every spell she casts these days seems to go wrong, and her quirky spirit guide is no help at all.
Not good news for a witch who uses her magic to catch criminals.
When the murderer who got away from her strikes again, she knows she'll need magic to find him. But once he's aware that Sarah Jane is both the lead detective on the case and a witch, it becomes a game of cat and mouse as he turns his attentions on her.
It will take more than just good instincts and training to catch the self-proclaimed Goddess Maker before he strikes again. To win this deadly game, Sarah Jane will need all her magic, not to mention a little help from her unpredictable spirit guide.
If you like Paranormal Women’s Fiction, witches and their quirky families, ghosts, psychics and murder mysteries, you will love The Midlife Spirit Guides series.
For Sarah Jane Prentice, 49-year-old police detective and witch, this has been the year from hell. She's lost her husband of 25 years, but after a few months everyone in her life is ready for her to move on and stop grieving. She's also been saddled with a horrific murder case she hasn't been able to solve. On top of everything else, every spell she casts these days seems to go wrong, and her quirky spirit guide is no help at all.
Not good news for a witch who uses her magic to catch criminals.
When the murderer who got away from her strikes again, she knows she'll need magic to find him. But once he's aware that Sarah Jane is both the lead detective on the case and a witch, it becomes a game of cat and mouse as he turns his attentions on her.
It will take more than just good instincts and training to catch the self-proclaimed Goddess Maker before he strikes again. To win this deadly game, Sarah Jane will need all her magic, not to mention a little help from her unpredictable spirit guide.
If you like Paranormal Women’s Fiction, witches and their quirky families, ghosts, psychics and murder mysteries, you will love The Midlife Spirit Guides series.
348 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 30, 2022
756 people are currently reading
295 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
February 11, 2023
Wendy Wang's books are, to me, delightfully charming and weirdly comforting, as witches and magic are a mainstay of the story, yet definitely not in my comfort zone. Her stories flow well and her characters have life and sass. As you may have guessed, I'm a big fan!
January 31, 2022
Great read
Wendy Wang is a great author.
This book is the first with SJ, a detective and her family.
There were times when I wanted a little more insight into specific characters, such as Logan; but I don't doubt that will happen as the series progresses.
I don't write reviews with spoilers making it difficult to write a review to entice you into this authors writing.
If you enjoy witchcraft with a healthy dose of normality, this is a great book; if you are looking for something that has paranormal has vampires etc, give it a miss.
I found it a great read, with fun, individual characters to enjoy
Wendy Wang is a great author.
This book is the first with SJ, a detective and her family.
There were times when I wanted a little more insight into specific characters, such as Logan; but I don't doubt that will happen as the series progresses.
I don't write reviews with spoilers making it difficult to write a review to entice you into this authors writing.
If you enjoy witchcraft with a healthy dose of normality, this is a great book; if you are looking for something that has paranormal has vampires etc, give it a miss.
I found it a great read, with fun, individual characters to enjoy
February 6, 2022
Great mystery
I was a little skeptical at the beginning, but Wendy Wang delivered a great mystery. I love all the characters. How Sarah Jane handled the husband's death was exactly how a grieving wife might handle her husband's death.
The plot was interesting and I didn't want to put the book down. There were entertaining twists and turns that kept me on the edge of my seat.
I highly recommend reading this book as well as Wendy Wang's other books.
I was a little skeptical at the beginning, but Wendy Wang delivered a great mystery. I love all the characters. How Sarah Jane handled the husband's death was exactly how a grieving wife might handle her husband's death.
The plot was interesting and I didn't want to put the book down. There were entertaining twists and turns that kept me on the edge of my seat.
I highly recommend reading this book as well as Wendy Wang's other books.
October 15, 2022
Evidently Wendy Wang is a well-established writer of paranormal cozy mysteries. This, however, was my first of her books.
First thing to note is that her heroine, SJ, is a middle-aged woman with grown children and a close family. Some of the blather about 'family matters above all' became a bit tedious but I may be vulnerable to skepticism, given that my own family relationships are based more in choice than biology.
SJ is a witch. That is nary a spoiler, trust me. She is also a police detective. Her entire family is magical. One minor kvetch is that the magic was left a bit superficial and when it did play a role it was primarily utilitarian.
What I did enjoy was the inclusion of ghosts, spirit guides, and even a Reaper. An intriguing magical cast. I kinda want a spirit guide now.
First thing to note is that her heroine, SJ, is a middle-aged woman with grown children and a close family. Some of the blather about 'family matters above all' became a bit tedious but I may be vulnerable to skepticism, given that my own family relationships are based more in choice than biology.
SJ is a witch. That is nary a spoiler, trust me. She is also a police detective. Her entire family is magical. One minor kvetch is that the magic was left a bit superficial and when it did play a role it was primarily utilitarian.
What I did enjoy was the inclusion of ghosts, spirit guides, and even a Reaper. An intriguing magical cast. I kinda want a spirit guide now.
March 14, 2025
I love Wendy Wang and the Witches from Palmetto point is one of my most cherished series! I would have loved for this to be a completely new story, everything felt like the same storyline only with new characters. Can't wait to read more from her!
February 1, 2022
I really loved this book. This author has such a great way of writing a mystery with magical aspects. And it was fun reading a story with the heroine being my age. She has become an auto buy for me.
February 2, 2022
Not going to lie, I was disappointed when I realized that the newest Wendy Wang book wasn't the newest Witches of Palmetto installment. BUT, and it's a big but (I cannot lie) this book is, dare I say, better?! Charlie has worn on me, so perhaps I'm a bit jaded, but Sarah Jane is AMAZING. I love that she's a police officer, living amongst non witches but trusting her partner enough to share. This story was engaging, the plot enticing, and the characters were enthralling. I CANNOT wait to see where WW takes this family next
February 27, 2024
Good
Sarah Jane is a woman in her late forties, a detective, a widow, and a witch.
Unfortunately, her magic has been on the fritz lately, ever since her own personal tragedy occurred.
When a new body linked to an old case turns up, she realizes she might just need her magical abilities to help her solve the case, especially as it starts to hit closer to home.
This was an enjoyable paranormal suspense story. Our midlife witch is suffering all the midlife issues so many of us can sympathise with, and a few extra ones beside. Her ghostly helpers aren’t always as helpful as they might be (can anyone say crazy lady?), and her family might be pressing her a little much.
It’s always nice to read about an older heroine, who might not be the young and fit “chosen one”, but is still ready to fight for what’s right.
Sarah Jane, therefore, was a nice change of pace.
It’s a fairly fast paced read, with lots of suspense and only a smidgen of magical events. There wasn’t much in the way of romance (for a very good reason), but I kind of liked that it meant SJ and her husband had definitely had a good relationship.
An engrossing read for the paranormal mystery lovers, and for those that enjoy their magical mysteries a little bit suspenseful.
Sarah Jane is a woman in her late forties, a detective, a widow, and a witch.
Unfortunately, her magic has been on the fritz lately, ever since her own personal tragedy occurred.
When a new body linked to an old case turns up, she realizes she might just need her magical abilities to help her solve the case, especially as it starts to hit closer to home.
This was an enjoyable paranormal suspense story. Our midlife witch is suffering all the midlife issues so many of us can sympathise with, and a few extra ones beside. Her ghostly helpers aren’t always as helpful as they might be (can anyone say crazy lady?), and her family might be pressing her a little much.
It’s always nice to read about an older heroine, who might not be the young and fit “chosen one”, but is still ready to fight for what’s right.
Sarah Jane, therefore, was a nice change of pace.
It’s a fairly fast paced read, with lots of suspense and only a smidgen of magical events. There wasn’t much in the way of romance (for a very good reason), but I kind of liked that it meant SJ and her husband had definitely had a good relationship.
An engrossing read for the paranormal mystery lovers, and for those that enjoy their magical mysteries a little bit suspenseful.
March 18, 2023
I simply love Wendy Wang’s addictive books and her special style of writing. I am finished reading all 13 of her ‘Witches of Palmetto Point’ series that are available at this time. This is the 1st book of her ‘Midlife Spirit Guides’ series and I am already hooked again. Since I am 79 years old, I just want Ms. Wang to keep writing at speed.
The main character in this book is Police Detective Sarah Jane Prentice, widow, who descends from a family of strong witches. SJ, as her friends call her, sees and converses with dead spirits and her magic helps her to solve crimes. Currently she had a case of nine missing young women. Her magic is not working. The spirits are not helping. Her spirit guide is not helping. The FBI sent in one of their special agents to help with the case and he has a very unique talent to bring to the table. When the case hits SJ very close and personal the witches gather to work their talents. This is another spectacular book that I highly recommend.
The main character in this book is Police Detective Sarah Jane Prentice, widow, who descends from a family of strong witches. SJ, as her friends call her, sees and converses with dead spirits and her magic helps her to solve crimes. Currently she had a case of nine missing young women. Her magic is not working. The spirits are not helping. Her spirit guide is not helping. The FBI sent in one of their special agents to help with the case and he has a very unique talent to bring to the table. When the case hits SJ very close and personal the witches gather to work their talents. This is another spectacular book that I highly recommend.
April 7, 2023
Extremely enjoyable and I loved the way the author portrayed Sarah Jane and her family.
The story was well thought out with real life family issues as well as the addition of witchcraft.
I felt like either the author is wiccan herself or did some intense research into the this topic since the story came off in an intelligent manner.
Middle age is nothing to laugh at (I know) and the loss of a loved one can't be any easier yet the author had my heart tied up in knots and also helped me to find peace as the story played out.
Great characters, true to heart family dynamics mixed with a sad, intense topic that hooked me rather quickly.
I look forward to reading the rest of this series with high hopes.
Highly recommended!
Almost forgot, I did listen to this on audible and the narrator was just perfect.
I felt as if this was her story.
The story was well thought out with real life family issues as well as the addition of witchcraft.
I felt like either the author is wiccan herself or did some intense research into the this topic since the story came off in an intelligent manner.
Middle age is nothing to laugh at (I know) and the loss of a loved one can't be any easier yet the author had my heart tied up in knots and also helped me to find peace as the story played out.
Great characters, true to heart family dynamics mixed with a sad, intense topic that hooked me rather quickly.
I look forward to reading the rest of this series with high hopes.
Highly recommended!
Almost forgot, I did listen to this on audible and the narrator was just perfect.
I felt as if this was her story.
June 12, 2023
“Witch in Retrograde”was a delightful book to read. I started it yesterday afternoon and finished by bedtime last night. I enjoyed the family setting and how everyone came together in times of crisis to support each other. Also, how each character developed their magical abilities and emotionally through the story. The story dealt with larger family issues including teenage and young adult children, siblings and a very wise grandmother named Gigi.
I started the next book this morning, “Witch on the Cusp”. I had to restrain myself from reading too much.
Wendy Wang is a favorite author of mine. I very much enjoyed the series, “ Witches of Palmetto Point”. It feels as though I’ve been waiting a year for the next book to be released. Just another few days.
I started the next book this morning, “Witch on the Cusp”. I had to restrain myself from reading too much.
Wendy Wang is a favorite author of mine. I very much enjoyed the series, “ Witches of Palmetto Point”. It feels as though I’ve been waiting a year for the next book to be released. Just another few days.
January 31, 2022
This new series from Wendy Wang has characteristics of her Witches of Palmetto series but there are unique differences. The main character is a recently widowed 49 year old with 3 grown children who is also a long time police detective. She is also a witch whose powers are on the fritz due to her overwhelming grief over the loss of her husband.
Sarah Jane and her partner Mia Johnson have just been assigned a murder case of a young woman which is eerily similar to a previous murder they still haven't solved whose victim haunts Sarah Jane.
This has it all, family of witches, ghosts, police procedural, serial killer, and plenty of twist and some surprise characters.
Sarah Jane and her partner Mia Johnson have just been assigned a murder case of a young woman which is eerily similar to a previous murder they still haven't solved whose victim haunts Sarah Jane.
This has it all, family of witches, ghosts, police procedural, serial killer, and plenty of twist and some surprise characters.
March 29, 2022
I really loved this book. I enjoyed the characters, with some surprises at the end with one of the characters I never inspected. It had a good amount of action; it did not drag along like some books I've read with too much investigating. The ending was not too much of a surprise since I figured out who the killer was ahead of the ending. It was a really enjoyable book, and I can't wait to read the next two in the series. Was disappointed to find out they are not due out until Dec. 22 & Jan. 23. I will be looking forward to them the rest of the year. I totally recommend this book.
January 12, 2024
Sarah Jane is a detective and a witch-and being both has its challenges. I loved this story and the fact that Sarah Jane, or SJ as she's called by family and colleagues, is a 49-year-old protagonist. She's tough but kind, and she's determined to solve the mystery surrounding the deaths of several young women. I liked the way the author wove magic into the story. I also loved the family dynamic the author created between the protagonist, her kids, and her sisters. I loved the book and am already reading book two.
February 28, 2022
Great new paranormal series from Wendy Wang!
Imagine being a homicide detective that is also a witch who can see spirits! SJ is just that and she's working a case involving several young girls. Someone is killing them and keeping their souls! Then the killer gets more brazen and takes SJ's daughter! Can she save her in time and free the trapped spirits? You'll have to read it to find out.
Imagine being a homicide detective that is also a witch who can see spirits! SJ is just that and she's working a case involving several young girls. Someone is killing them and keeping their souls! Then the killer gets more brazen and takes SJ's daughter! Can she save her in time and free the trapped spirits? You'll have to read it to find out.
March 4, 2022
Wendy Never Disappoints!
I loved this book and can't wait for the next one to come out! I recommend this book to all of you who love mystery, ghosts, witches and family strength! This story goes in some twists and turns but always brings the family back together. Wendy is one of my favorite authors, she really knows how to make you feel like one of the characters. You won't be disappointed!!
I loved this book and can't wait for the next one to come out! I recommend this book to all of you who love mystery, ghosts, witches and family strength! This story goes in some twists and turns but always brings the family back together. Wendy is one of my favorite authors, she really knows how to make you feel like one of the characters. You won't be disappointed!!
March 17, 2022
Great read
I really enjoyed this book, Sarah Jane has a lot to cope with, it's her birthday, her family have organised a party that she doesn't want, her husband died a year ago and the spirit of a murdered young woman is pestering her! Then things get worse as another murder victim is found setting up a truly awful week.
I liked the progression of the story but found the ending a little rushed, looking forward to reading more in the series.
I really enjoyed this book, Sarah Jane has a lot to cope with, it's her birthday, her family have organised a party that she doesn't want, her husband died a year ago and the spirit of a murdered young woman is pestering her! Then things get worse as another murder victim is found setting up a truly awful week.
I liked the progression of the story but found the ending a little rushed, looking forward to reading more in the series.
October 10, 2022
I liked the fact that in this book being a witch is already part of the main character and it's at the family's core. There's not the common situation in which someone has always suspected that they are witches and that their powers start to show, the discovery and all of that. No. They are full-fledged witches who still need to work out their relationships, humanity, work, etc in modern times. Easy to read and engaging, good and well thought twists when necessary. Enjoyable.
May 9, 2025
Wendy Wang has another series winner! One book in and I’m invested in this new group of family and coworkers. This one revolves around a middle aged widowed mother who is a homicide detective. It wastes no time and dives right into the mysterious serial killings. With the help of all those around her, supernatural and otherwise, Sarah Jane finds her way through the murky path to justice and personal healing. Bernice was great comic relief to ease the sadness of it all and the mystery was action packed and fast paced making it easy to become fully immersed. Can’t wait to read more as I’m a fan of Wendy and loved her Palmetto Point books. Recommend!
February 2, 2022
Wonderful story!
I truly enjoyed this new book by Wendy Wang. Sarah Jane is investigating a murder and a ghost has shown up in her life to help. Jessica (the ghost) was killed by the same murderer. Next thing she knows she has a guardian angel, an FBI agent, and her family helping too. Really written well and very hard to put down!
I truly enjoyed this new book by Wendy Wang. Sarah Jane is investigating a murder and a ghost has shown up in her life to help. Jessica (the ghost) was killed by the same murderer. Next thing she knows she has a guardian angel, an FBI agent, and her family helping too. Really written well and very hard to put down!
February 8, 2022
Witches, Ghosts, Murder and mayhem. Detective Sarah Jane is a witch. She uses her abilities to help solve cases. A lot is going on in her personal life as well as at work. She is having a hard time focusing on getting things right. Until something happens to her daughter Selena who is in college.
I recommend this book. The characters are amazing, even the ghostly ones.
I recommend this book. The characters are amazing, even the ghostly ones.
March 9, 2022
Entertaining
Unlike most stories with witches and magic, this one had a lot based in reality. The main character, although a witch, was also a detective with the local police department. Not everyone is as they seem, even when they bring in the FBI. The author gave us a good cross of normalcy and magic, a solidly good story.
Unlike most stories with witches and magic, this one had a lot based in reality. The main character, although a witch, was also a detective with the local police department. Not everyone is as they seem, even when they bring in the FBI. The author gave us a good cross of normalcy and magic, a solidly good story.
March 31, 2022
This is the first work of this author that I have read. I don't plan to be a stranger for long. The Sarah Jane is a police detective with magic. She is also a widow and mother who is struggling with the loss. I enjoyed her family and the way they supported her. The suspense was heightened slowly and kept you intrigued. I plan to read more from this author soon.
October 20, 2022
spirits
Sarah Jane was a detective and one a case of dead girls.. one which was a spirit that was trying to help her find the killer..as more girls are found dead she is running on low with her own grief and that of someone killing teens.. was sure-r ur I enjoyed the book.. kept me interested until the end.. has a few surprises wasn’t expecting..
Sarah Jane was a detective and one a case of dead girls.. one which was a spirit that was trying to help her find the killer..as more girls are found dead she is running on low with her own grief and that of someone killing teens.. was sure-r ur I enjoyed the book.. kept me interested until the end.. has a few surprises wasn’t expecting..
November 6, 2022
Well, well Wendy, you did it again..
What a wonderful story. To learn to love, let go, and believe witches do exist. Wendy Wang has the knack to make you believe and to torture her characters to the brink and bring them back. Well done...can't wait for the next book in the series.
What a wonderful story. To learn to love, let go, and believe witches do exist. Wendy Wang has the knack to make you believe and to torture her characters to the brink and bring them back. Well done...can't wait for the next book in the series.
March 15, 2023
after reading the Palmetto series I needed more Wang!
This book is a good one! I will get book 2.
I think the Palmetto series was a little better, but some of that may be that my character list got muddled in the beginning here because I was SO into the Palmetto series!
If you like witchy paranormal read this!
This book is a good one! I will get book 2.
I think the Palmetto series was a little better, but some of that may be that my character list got muddled in the beginning here because I was SO into the Palmetto series!
If you like witchy paranormal read this!
August 2, 2023
Marvellous
If you're looking to read a new book you should check out this series. Wendy has 2 series and ɓoth are great. She speaks in the first person and she always has an end. You don't have to wait months for the next book. eg Allegra Darling. 3yrs I've been waiting for the 4th book and I'm left wondering how it ends.
If you're looking to read a new book you should check out this series. Wendy has 2 series and ɓoth are great. She speaks in the first person and she always has an end. You don't have to wait months for the next book. eg Allegra Darling. 3yrs I've been waiting for the 4th book and I'm left wondering how it ends.
September 5, 2023
Liked this first in the series more than I thought I would. I was concerned that it might be a cheesy slapped together cozy mystery but it’s well constructed with solid characters. A lot to unpack though with the main character being able to see & communicate with ghosts, having a touch of esp, and being a witch. Kind of a supernatural tri-fecta.
May 28, 2024
Good read
I thought it started a little slow and I put it down. I am so glad that I decided to continue reading. It has a wide range of emotions as well as a great mystery with a few twists and turns that keep you reading. The characters evolved and showed that family solidarity can overcome any situation
I thought it started a little slow and I put it down. I am so glad that I decided to continue reading. It has a wide range of emotions as well as a great mystery with a few twists and turns that keep you reading. The characters evolved and showed that family solidarity can overcome any situation
February 2, 2022
A new direction for perennial favorite Wendy Wang!
What a great surprise! Mature heroine Sarah Jane is approaching her fifties with her life's plans turned upside down. Get to know this West Coast family of witches in what I hope to be a new series (please?!?)
What a great surprise! Mature heroine Sarah Jane is approaching her fifties with her life's plans turned upside down. Get to know this West Coast family of witches in what I hope to be a new series (please?!?)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews